Student Use of AI for Homework Rises as Concerns Grow About Critical Thinking Skills

For Release

TuesdayMarch 17, 2026

Student use of artificial intelligence (AI) for homework increased in 2025, even as more students are worried the technology may be harming their ability to think critically, according to a new RAND report.

Between May and December 2025, the percentage of middle school, high school and college students using AI for homework rose from 48% to 62%, based on nationally representative survey data from RAND's American Youth Panel. The increase was driven largely by middle and high school students, as use among college students remained relatively steady.

“Students are clearly embracing AI as a learning tool, but they're also conflicted about what it means for their own learning,” said Heather Schwartz, vice president of RAND's Education, Employment and Infrastructure division. “They're using AI to look up answers, get explanations, brainstorm and revise writing, but at the same time, more of them now believe it's eroding students' critical-thinking skills.”